Why should leading questions be avoided?

Leading questions should be avoided because they can manipulate responses. These types of questions suggest a particular answer or contain an assumption that may influence the interviewee's response, leading to biased or inaccurate information. When a question implies a desired answer or nudges the respondent toward a specific viewpoint, it can compromise the validity of the information gathered.

In interviews or interrogations, it is essential to obtain honest and objective responses to ensure that the insights gained are trustworthy. Neutral, open-ended questions encourage the interviewee to provide their own perspective without being influenced by the questioner’s bias or suggestions. This leads to a more accurate understanding of the situation being discussed, making the information reliable for assessment or decision-making purposes.